Why It's So Important to Take Medications Properly
| 4 min read
Director II of Pharmacy Services Clinical at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, member of the Michigan Prescription Drug and Opioid Abuse Commission
- Follow instructions explicitly. Take medications exactly as directed by the prescriber, meaning at the right time of day, with or without food and all the way until you’re told to end. This is especially true for those taking antibiotics. Failing to finish the medication regimen can cause development of resistant bacteria that leads to drug resistance.
- Keep an open line of communication. Do not be afraid to ask questions; it is the prescriber’s duty to keep you informed. In addition to your doctor, pharmacists are a great resource for any questions you may have about medications. Make sure to tell your doctor about all of the other medications you’re currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements and vitamins. Also report all side effects. There may be another drug your doctor can swap out to help the side effect go away.
- Make your meds part of your daily habit. One reason people don’t follow doctor’s orders is that they just forget. Incorporate taking your medicine into your everyday routine, such as eating breakfast or preparing for bed each night. Daily alarms and reminder apps for your smartphone are helpful as well.
- Keep them in plain sight. Place your prescriptions in places you frequent the most, whether it’s your nightstand or kitchen counter. Daily dosing containers are another useful item for staying on top of your meds (just make sure it’s kept out of the reach of children). Simply fill it up at the beginning of the week and you’re good to go.
- Educate yourself. Research your medications through reputable sources, such as the American Medical Association and American Heart Association. Knowing why you’re taking them and how they’re helping your body might give you the motivation to keep taking them. Don’t forget, your pharmacist is always there to answer your medication questions.
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